Do Unmarried Partners Automatically Inherit?
If someone dies without a valid Will, the rules of intestacy decide who inherits their estate. At present, an unmarried partner does not automatically inherit in the same way as a husband, wife or civil partner. Living together for many years does not change this position. Therefore, couples who live together should not assume that their partner will automatically inherit everything. A Will gives you the opportunity to make your own wishes clear.What Happens to a Home You Own Together?
The answer depends on how you own the property. There are two common ways to own a property jointly. These are joint tenants and tenants in common. Understanding the difference is important because each arrangement works differently when one owner dies.Joint Tenants
If you own your home as joint tenants, the surviving owner will normally receive the property automatically when the other owner dies. As a result, the deceased owner’s interest in that property does not usually pass through their Will.Tenants in Common
Tenants in common own separate shares of the property. Therefore, if one owner dies, their share does not automatically pass to the other owner. Instead, their share can pass according to the terms of their Will. If you are unsure how you own your home, it is worth checking.Why Is a Will Important for Unmarried Couples?
A Will allows you to clearly record what you would like to happen after your death. For unmarried couples, this can be particularly important. It helps make sure that your legal arrangements reflect the life you have built together. For example, a Will allows you to: decide who should inherit from your estate; make arrangements for your share of certain assets; choose who will deal with your estate; leave gifts to family, friends or charities; and make appropriate arrangements for children and loved ones. Most importantly, your Will gives you control over your wishes rather than leaving everything to the intestacy rules.“But We’ve Been Together for Years”
This is a very common assumption. You may have lived together for 10, 20 or even 30 years. You might also regard everything you have as belonging to you both. However, the length of your relationship does not automatically give an unmarried partner the same inheritance rights as a spouse or civil partner. For that reason, it is worth asking yourself one simple question: If something happened to me, would the legal outcome actually match my wishes? If you are unsure, reviewing your arrangements can give you greater clarity.Making a Will Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Talking about Wills can sometimes feel daunting. However, making a Will is really about planning ahead and making things clearer for the people who matter to you.At Wills & Wishes Legal, Fiona Daly provides friendly and straightforward Will writing in Rochdale and surrounding areas.
Fiona explains everything in plain English. Home appointments are also available, so you can discuss your wishes in the comfort of your own home. Wills & Wishes Legal is proud to provide a personal and local service. The business has also received over 200 five-star Google reviews from clients. Home appointments are available across Rochdale and nearby areas, including Norden, Bamford, Littleborough, Heywood, Castleton, Shawclough, Newhey and Milnrow.Does Your Current Arrangement Reflect Your Wishes?
If you live with your partner and own a home together, it is important not to make assumptions. First, check how you own your property. Then consider whether you have an up-to-date Will that reflects your wishes. Taking these steps can provide greater certainty for both you and your partner.If you would like to discuss your circumstances, contact Fiona Daly at Wills & Wishes Legal for friendly, plain-English guidance.
Call 07799 213721 or email fiona@willsandwisheslegal.co.uk This article provides general information about Wills and inheritance in England and Wales. Individual circumstances can differ, so specific advice may be needed.